The Ultimate Safari Packing Guide by Afrima Luxury Travel.
The Ultimate Safari Packing Guide by Afrima Luxury Travel.
Blog Article
Preparing for your luxury safari adventure in Tanzania should be exciting, not overwhelming. At Afrima Luxury Travel, we understand that knowing what to pack, especially for your first safari, can be challenging. That’s why we’ve curated this comprehensive, thoughtful packing guide to help you prepare for an extraordinary experience, whether you're embarking on a luxury lodge safari or a rugged camping adventure.
Choosing the Right Travel Bag
Your safari style determines the most suitable type of travel bag. Here’s what we recommend:
Duffel Bag
Ideal for group or budget camping safaris
Soft-sided, lightweight, and space-efficient
Travel Backpack
Perfect for hands-free mobility and flexible packing
Best for travelers on group or overland safaris
Rolling Luggage
Convenient for luxury lodge safaris with vehicle storage space
Not suitable for camping trips or light aircraft flights
Daypack or Small Backpack (Highly Recommended)
Keep essentials with you in the safari vehicle—cameras, snacks, sunblock, water, and a light jacket
Safari Clothing Essentials
Packing the right clothing ensures both comfort and protection. Keep colors neutral (khaki, olive, beige) and avoid dark blues and blacks, which attract tsetse flies. White clothes tend to show dust easily.
Must-Have Safari Clothing
Warm Sweater or Fleece – East African mornings and evenings can be chilly
Convertible Safari Trousers – Zip-off styles provide flexibility as temperatures change
Long-Sleeve Shirt – Ideal for sun protection, insect deterrence, and cooler times
Short Sleeves for Lodge Dining – Comfortable and appropriate for evening meals
Walking Shoes or Lightweight Boots – Essential for walking safaris; breathable sandals are fine for lodge-based days
Wide-Brimmed Hat – A must for sun protection during open-roof game drives
Sunglasses – UV protection and reduced glare for clear wildlife spotting
Toiletry Bag & Personal Care Essentials
While some luxury lodges provide amenities, it’s best to bring your personal care items, especially for camping or mobile safaris.
Recommended Items
Wet wipes & facial tissues (essential for camping)
Toothbrush, toothpaste & floss
Travel-sized shampoo, shower gel & deodorant
Hand sanitizer
Sunscreen (SPF 30+ recommended)
Insect repellent (with DEET or natural alternatives like citronella)
Travel towel (essential for camping trips)
Personal medications
Lip balm with SPF
Toilet paper roll (crucial for camping)
Health & Safety Essentials
Keeping healthy on safari starts with preparation.
Documents & Health Gear
Valid copyright – Ensure it has at least six months' validity
Visa – Can be acquired online or upon arrival
Vaccination Card (Yellow Fever Required) – Mandatory for entry into Tanzania
Travel Insurance Documents – Highly recommended for coverage beyond basic medical evacuation
Insect Repellent – Protects against mosquitoes and biting flies
Health Insurance Cards
First Aid Kit – Include essentials like antihistamines, painkillers, plasters, and rehydration salts
Visit the CDC Travel Health and consult your doctor at least 6–8 weeks before you depart for up-to-date vaccination requirements.
Tech & Photography Gear
Capture the beauty of the wild without missing a moment.
Camera with Zoom Lens – A DSLR or mirrorless camera with a zoom lens (70–300mm) is perfect for wildlife
Spare Batteries & Memory Cards – Electricity may be limited in remote camps
Binoculars – A personal pair allows uninterrupted game viewing
Power Adapter & Converter – Tanzania uses Type G plugs (UK-style)
Flashlight or Headlamp – Useful in camps and lodges with limited lighting
Smartphone & Charger – For photos, notes, or offline maps
Entertainment & Comfort
There’s always something to see on safari, but moments of downtime call for personal comfort and leisure.
Travel Pillow – Great for napping during long game drives
Extra Blanket or Shawl – For chilly evenings under the stars
Safari Field Guide – Identify wildlife, birds, and plants as you go
A Good Book or Kindle – Ideal for quiet lodge evenings or long transfers
Notebook or Journal – Capture your thoughts and wildlife sightings
Cash & Essentials
Tanzania’s remote safari regions often operate without card facilities.
USD Cash – For tips, souvenirs, local purchases, and villages
Tipping Guidelines – Guides, porters, and lodge staff appreciate gratuities
Small Change – Useful for local markets and cultural experiences
What NOT to Pack
Plastic Bags – Banned in Tanzania. Use reusable fabric or ziplock alternatives
Drones – Not allowed in national parks and private reserves
Bright or Dark Clothing – Attracts insects and is not ideal for blending in
Time to Prepare for Adventure
Packing smart is the first step to a seamless safari. Whether you're soaring over the Serengeti in a hot air balloon, tracking lions in Ruaha, or enjoying a candlelit dinner under the stars, being well-prepared enhances every moment.
Need help crafting your dream itinerary or selecting the perfect safari gear list? Contact Afrima Luxury Travel today and let our experts ensure every detail of your safari is perfectly tailored, right down to your suitcase.